15 romantic city breaks every couple should experience

Solo trips may be on the rise but romantic city beaks will never go out of fashion and with our pick of magical spots that were made for exploring à deux, you'll love getting to know a new destination while spending quality time together.

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Whether strolling hand in hand as you take in charming squares, discovering quiet sides to well-known cities or eating your way around a foodie hotspot, these are the best city breaks for couples in Europe and the UK.

While Venice and Paris are fine places to take in a charming city with your partner, we've brought you some extra special alternatives for romantic break too, including Switzerland's underrated capital and the scenic Norwegian city of Bergen.

Europe is one of the top places to escape for a romantic city break and whatever you like doing once you get there, you'll find plenty of active adventures, lesser-known squares and cobbled streets to discover, as well as out of season experiences.

You may even wish to take a romantic winter city break, with snow-covered cities close to the Swiss Alps and the Northern Lights to spot if you head far north.

Browse our pick of the most wonderful romantic city breaks to experience with the one you love in 2020...

1. Tromso, Norway

Known as one of the top Northern Lights cities, Tromso is the epitome of romance if you're a couple who likes starry skies and dreamy natural sights. This is one romantic city break you'll never forget as you discover northern Europe's most captivating winter destinations.

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Be impressed by the enchanting city of Alesund, see the royal city of Trondheim and stand in Europe's northernmost city Honningsvag.

Where to stay

Join a once-in-a-lifetime expedition cruise to Norway, where you'll search for the Northern Lights alongside BBC weather presenter Carol Kirkwood. You'll stay on a modern ship with Arctic-inspired interiors, enjoying luxuries like hot tubs on the deck and an ice cream bar. BOOK NOW

2. Barcelona, Spain

This sun-kissed city is popular for a reason. Its fascinating architecture, sprawling beach and Mediterranean vibes makes it one of the best city breaks for couples, where you can stroll hand in hand along the boulevards, watch the sunset by the sea and dine at top restaurants.

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Some of the most romantic sites include Park Guell, La Sagrada Familia and the Magic Fountain of Montjuic.

Where to stay

If you're the type of couple who likes to explore vibrant cities but retreat to a more quieter spot, we've got the trip for you. During a seven-night all-inclusive holiday, you'll stay at a four-star resort on the Costa Brava but be close enough to explore Barcelona for the perfect beach-city break. BOOK NOW

3. Galway, Ireland

A European Capital of Culture for 2020, there's never been a better time to explore the Irish city of Galway. A year of cultural events are set to take place, celebrating Galway's imagination and creativity.

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Famed for its gorgeous scenery and delicious food, the city treats visitors to public art, exhibitions, theatre and musical performances on the edge of the Wild Atlantic Way.

Where to stay

Experience Galway by checking into the traditional and homely Park House Hotel in the city centre. BOOK NOW

4. Marseille, France

One of France's most overlooked destinations, Marseille is an excellent city to soak up Provencal culture and the laidback lifestyle of the south of France. Thanks to its 300 days of sunshine, it makes for a sun-soaked escape from the UK and enjoys mild temperatures in the colder months, too.

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Once you're there, you'll want to sip pastis (the local tipple), browse the colourful stalls of Prado Market, take in the beauty of Le Vieux Port, one of Marseille's most beautiful areas and marvel at the magnificent Basilique Notre Dame de la Garde.

Where to stay

easyJet Holidays has three-night city breaks for couples from as little as £158 per person, staying in three-star hotels like Residhome Marseille Saint Charles. BOOK NOW

5. Bath, UK

When it comes to romantic city breaks in the UK, beauty spot Bath is hard to beat. You can stroll its quaint streets hand in hand, enjoy a soak in the natural thermal waters of Thermae Bath Spa and browse the independent boutiques before holing up in a cosy hotel.

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Where to stay

For a stylish stay in the centre of town, look no further than the Country Living Lansdown Grove Hotel, with its elegant decor, Georgian fireplace and comfy rooms you won't want to leave. Set in a listed building, it offers all the charm you want for a romantic break. BOOK NOW

6. Lyon, France

If you've already ticked Paris off your bucket list or just fancy somewhere different to France's overcrowded capital, Lyon is the ideal alternative. It offers a pretty old town, impressive architecture and is known as the country's gastronomic capital, making it a must-visit for foodies.

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Where to stay

Make it a unique visit to the city by combining your trip with other overlooked French cities, like Avignon, and spending it on a floating hotel. You can take in the stunning views of the Rhone River and join Michelin-starred chef Michel Roux Jr. for a delightful cruise in April. BOOK NOW

7. Venice, Italy

We know it's one of the world's most famous places for romantic city breaks but there are still ways to see Venice beyond where the crowds go. The islands of Burano and Murano are highlights of the Venetian Lagoon thanks to their bright buildings, lacemaking and colourful glass produced there.

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Meanwhile, the fishing port of Chioggia makes for an interesting visit away from all the hordes of Venice, where narrow alleys and deserted canals await.

Where to stay

For something truly unique, join a five-day cruise around Venice with TV's The Hotel Inspector, Alex Polizzi in March. You'll stay on a boutique cruise ship with panoramic windows and a lovely sundeck so you can take in all the views of Venice on your dreamy romantic break. BOOK NOW

8. Seville, Spain

Barcelona is a fine place for a romantic city break in Europe but head further south and you can experience the beauty of Andalucia in sunny Seville. With glorious gardens, royal palaces and passionate flamenco shows, this alternative city is a great way to soak up the Spanish flavours while enjoying the rays.

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Then there's the incredible cuisine that takes in slow cooking techniques and the use of an array of spices. What's more, a trip to beautiful Seville can be really affordable too.

Where to stay

British Airways offers three-night city breaks from £129 per person. You don't have to compromise on luxury either as BA's romantic city breaks include stays at four-star hotels. BOOK NOW

9. Funchal, Madeira

For something more laidback and surrounded by nature, visit the Atlantic island of Madeira where its marvellous capital city Funchal will delight you. This romantic city break destination in Portugal is where you can ride a cable car over the beautiful rooftops and take in the stunning sea views while you're at it. The market is another must-do to take in all the colours and you'll want to check out the lively squares and watch the world go by from the alfresco cafes.

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The biggest highlight of Funchal is its gardens. As Madeira affords a subtropical climate, you can expect to see some breathtaking plants and flowers. Head for the Botanical Garden to see its fascinating collection of flora. There are also lovely views over the city from here.

Where to stay

Experience Funchal and more of Madeira during a springtime trip hosted by Gardeners' World presenter Adam Frost, where you'll stay in a hotel overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and get to know the island't most beautiful corners - from the city of Funchal to its dramatic interior. BOOK NOW

10. Porto, Portugal

Leave Lisbon to the crowds as you head to picturesque Porto on the delightful River Douro. Iconic bridges, pretty tiles, famous sweet wine and architectural marvels like the Cathedral and the Church of Sao Francisco, are just some of the things you'll want to see on a romantic city break.

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You can even get out of the centre and head for the nearby Foz do Douro beaches for a stroll along the sands.

Where to stay

British Airways offers three-night city breaks to Porto from £153 per person, including stays at four-star hotels. BOOK NOW

11. Bern, Switzerland

For a romantic winter city break without the crowds, visit Switzerland' s little-known capital Bern, which you can explore on foot thanks to its charmingly compact size. There's plenty of character in Bern's old town and an elaborate clock tower to check out. Be sure to stop at one of the traditional bars for a drink and enjoy a winter walk in one of Bern's parks.

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And for one of the most romantic places to visit in the city, head for the magnificent Gothic cathedral, which affords spectacular views of the city from the top, with the River Aare, the Alps and Oberland forming a dreamy backdrop.

Where to stay

See Bern on an amazing Swiss Alps adventure that takes in the legendary Glacier Express this winter. You'll stay at the adults-only Hotel Carlton-Europe close to Lake Thun, with its on-site spa and antique furnishings. BOOK NOW

12. Amsterdam, Holland

One of the most delightful cities you'll find in all of Europe, Amsterdam offers picturesque canals, bright tulip fields and more museums and parks than you can fit into one trip, which is why it's one of our favourite places to return.

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The best time to visit is in spring when Holland's famous tulips are in full bloom. You can see the flowers in the floating flower market and visit nearby Keukenhof, the incredible floral destination that's open for just a few weeks each year.

Where to stay

Experience Keukenhof and more of spring's highlights with an Amsterdam cruise, where you'll stay on a small cruise ship, visiting other cities in Holland, including trendy Rotterdam. BOOK NOW

13. Bergen, Norway

This UNESCO-protected city is the gateway to the magnificent Norwegian fjords, giving you the perfect combination of nature, culture and vibrant urban life. It's Norway's second largest city and offers rich maritime history, so you can expect to see small boats lining the harbour and brightly-coloured buildings standing proud along the waterfront.

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You'll fall in love with Bergen's cobblestone streets and narrow alleyways that lead to emerald-green parks, medieval cathedrals and stone fortresses - the perfect setting for a romantic city break.

Where to stay

Bergen is ideal for exploring as part of a Norwegian fjords cruise in the summer. On Prima's cruise, you'll stay on Holland America Line's Nieuw Statendam, a classic ship with innovative restaurants, music venues and comfy staterooms. BOOK NOW

14. Vienna, Austria

Europe's 'city of music' was made for lovers, with opera, jazz and the waltz in the air. Set on the Danube River, Vienna is a picturesque city to explore during one of the best city breaks for couples. There's baroque architecture around every corner, beautiful palaces to browse and a delightful old coffee house culture, a staple of the city's social experience.

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One of the best ways to experience Vienna on a romantic city break is combining it with a Danube River cruise, where you can visit multiple destinations on a relaxing journey through Europe. Next year, you can join a Strictly Come Dancing cruise with Dame Darcey Bussell, who will tell you about her life and host a cocktail party. You'll also visit the likes of Nuremberg, Budapest and Passau. BOOK NOW

15. Koblenz, Germany

Offering something for everyone, this charming German city on the northern end of the Rhine Gorge has the likes of castles, winding streets and squares that make for wonderful strolls.

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There's a cable car that connects the town to the hilltop Ehrenbreitstein Fortress and it's best explored on a Rhine River cruise, where you'll also stop in Cologne, Strasbourg and Heidelberg.

Where to stay

Visit Koblenz together during a once-in-a-lifetime cruise with Strictly Come Dancing star Pasha Kovalev, where he'll also teach you how to dance. Your home for eight days will be a stylish small ship that comes with a heated pool, cinema and beautiful sundeck. BOOK NOW

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